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bax · 03-30-2017, 01:46 PM

Like the majority of Flames fans, I've been disappointed in Sam's offensive production this season. I was expecting him to somewhat "breakout" this year and hit 50 points or so. I even drafted him in my keeper league haha.

I think it's been harder to watch this year simply because his peers from the same draft class all seem to be surpassing him although most of them are playing wing with prime scoring opportunities. Keep in mind this is only his second full NHL season and he could simply be having a sophomore slump. He did score four goals in a single game last year.

Looking back to that draft I was firmly in the Bennett camp and wanted him more than any other prospect. It's not fun watching him continue to struggle and lose confidence while Draisaitl blossoms into a top 10 scorer up north.

However, I do not think this is a lost season or anything. For one Bennett has played center all year in a limited role with limited skilled linemates. That's not a combination to figure out the offensive side of the puck and put up big points. Secondly he has vastly improved his defensive play and his play away from the puck. He's really growing into a player and his long term development will benefit from this season. Some adversity is a good thing.

The kid is only 20 years old. I think Sam will continue to grow and continue to become a better player on both sides of the puck, but the question is how much better?

03-30-2017, 01:46 PM	#121
bax #1 Goaltender Join Date: Mar 2011 Exp:	The future of Sam Bennett Like the majority of Flames fans, I've been disappointed in Sam's offensive production this season. I was expecting him to somewhat "breakout" this year and hit 50 points or so. I even drafted him in my keeper league haha. I think it's been harder to watch this year simply because his peers from the same draft class all seem to be surpassing him although most of them are playing wing with prime scoring opportunities. Keep in mind this is only his second full NHL season and he could simply be having a sophomore slump. He did score four goals in a single game last year. Looking back to that draft I was firmly in the Bennett camp and wanted him more than any other prospect. It's not fun watching him continue to struggle and lose confidence while Draisaitl blossoms into a top 10 scorer up north. However, I do not think this is a lost season or anything. For one Bennett has played center all year in a limited role with limited skilled linemates. That's not a combination to figure out the offensive side of the puck and put up big points. Secondly he has vastly improved his defensive play and his play away from the puck. He's really growing into a player and his long term development will benefit from this season. Some adversity is a good thing. The kid is only 20 years old. I think Sam will continue to grow and continue to become a better player on both sides of the puck, but the question is how much better?